Former Minister for Regional Development; Lands; Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development

Artworks arise for new Pingelly Health Centre

19/08/2016 8:00 AM

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Award-winning artist Tony Pankiw to produce twin sculptures

Part of State Government's Percent for Art Scheme

Acclaimed Western Australian artist Tony Pankiw has been chosen to create works for the new Pingelly Health Centre, under the State Government's Percent for Art Scheme.

Announcing the artworks commission today, Health and Culture and the Arts Minister John Day said Mr Pankiw was chosen from a talented pool of artists for his experience creating public art that incorporated historical, cultural and environmental messages.

"He has produced sculptures for the new St John of God Midland Public Hospital and the Kalgoorlie Health Service," he said.

"For Pingelly Health Centre, he plans to create two sculptures that will tell the story of the local area. He has named them 'Pingelly Arising'."

The main feature artwork will be a large aluminium piece in the entrance garden, designed to guide visitors to the health centre.

"This sculpture will be four metres high, with large wings suggesting a phoenix rising, to reflect growth, renewal and strong families," Mr Day said.

"The second, lower sculpture will reference local landmark Boyagin Rock."

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the new Pingelly Health Centre, made possible by Royalties for Regions, would include a contemporary emergency department, Emergency Telehealth Service videoconferencing facilities and group therapy rooms.

"Investment in building health infrastructure and services is vital to create vibrant regions with strong economies," Mr Redman said.

"The new, purpose-built facility will bring improvements in patient care to Pingelly and the wider region and the inclusion of Mr Pankiw's art further enhances its place in the community."

The $8.4 million Pingelly Health Centre is made possible by Royalties for Regions through the Southern Inland Health Initiative. Construction is scheduled to be completed by early 2018.

The $500 million Southern Inland Health Initiative includes new builds and upgrades to 37 health services in the Wheatbelt, South-West, Great Southern and Mid-West. For more information, visit http://www.health.wa.gov.au/southerninland